Counting Stars ?

twenty

They had not yet made their relationship official, but seeing how King would always glow in happiness whenever they were together was more than enough. It was clear the two of them were falling for each other, unable to be without the other by their sides now. But they both silently knew the engagement situation had to be sorted out before they made things official.

"I'm sure we'll have a fun time at the concert," Rune reassured, nudging his nose against King's. "I trust you," King said wrapping his arms around Rune and pulling him close.

"Fuck yeah!" Fah cheered, running towards the room where Baifern was. Fang rushed after his hyperactive sister, worried she might do something to her favourite singer. The other students had also rushed towards the room in excitement, leaving Rune and King to walk there slowly.

As they entered the room, they found the group all taking turns taking pictures and getting her signature. At the sight of King and Rune, Baifern froze up.

Fah, who was the next person to get her signature, frowned, assuming Baifern was looking at Rune. It was always the case wherever she went with him. Countless people were always asking her for his number if he didn't give it to them, or would ask him for pictures.

It couldn't be helped since he was just that good looking. But to see her favourite singer being start-struck as well made her sigh.

However, to her and everyone else's surprise, she walked over and wrapped her arms around King, gently saying, "You came."

Rune and the twins frowned, looking at the situation in confusion. They watched as King stayed unmoving for a bit before raising his arm and giving the singer a soft pat on the back. "There's people," he informed. She pulled away, yet her hands still grasping lightly onto the sides of his shirt.

"I've missed you-"

"-'Fern," King interrupted, yet his affectionate title for her not going unnoticed. "Later," he muttered, his words causing her to lose her smile as she finally let go. She sighed, looking around the room and plastering on the smile once again, "Sorry about that, everyone. Anyway, let's continue?"

Rune watched closely at the stiff expression on King's face, wondering what their relationship was. Despite the jealousy, he simply walked closer, and grabbed onto King's wrist to get his attention. He gave a small and forced smile, one that was returned.

The two remained silent as the VIP fan meeting took place and slowly they were all escorted out. All except for King who was asked to stay back to talk to the singer. And while Rune wanted nothing more than to stay by him, he could tell King wanted the chance to speak to her.

"We'll wait for you outside," Rune said, giving King's hair a hesitant ruffle before leaving with the pair of curious twins.

As the door closed, King sighed and shoved his hands into his pockets. "Long time no see," he said, watching from the corner of his eyes as the staff also scurried out, and left them alone in the room.

She furrowed her brows, stepping forward to grab onto his arm, "Stop being so formal with me, King."

He went silent, avoiding her gaze. She sighed, letting go and tucking strands of hair behind her ear. "Look, I know you probably didn't even want to come here in the first place. But either way, I am glad to see you again."

"'Fern," King said sternly, "say what you need to say. We both know being alone here is risky. Especially considering the way you acted earlier with that hug."

"What risk?" She asked, crossing her arms, "you and I have more than enough influence and power to make sure this doesn't get out to the public. We managed to date without anyone knowing, didn't we?"

"You have influence," he clarified. "I don't."

"Fine," she gave in. "I just...I just wanted us to be friends again."

He stiffened at her request, which didn't go unnoticed. She bit her lower lips before continuing. "I know I messed up. But I couldn't risk anything happening to you," she said softly, gazing at him with saddened eyes. "I loved you, King. I still love you. But I know you don't feel the same so at least let me be your friend once more."

"I wasn't going to do anything," King stated, clenching his jaw in frustration. "I wasn't going to-"

She quickly hugged him, "I know. And I'm sorry. I should've trusted you enough. But it was for the best. You know that, King."

The two stood in silence, giving each other the time to think clearly.

"I wouldn't have agreed to come if I didn't forgive you," King muttered, surprising Baifern. She looked up at him and gave a pearly smile, "Does that mean...?"

"Yeah, we can be friends again," King gave a slight smile. She squealed, hugging him tighter. "You won't regret it, Babe!"

He rolled his eyes, flicking her forehead, "No pet names like that, 'Fern. We don't want misunderstandings."

"Fine," she groaned, releasing him. "Then be sure to text me your number on Instagram after you finally accept my Friend request. You should get going since your friend seems to be waiting for you."

He nodded, reaching out to pat her head. "Later."

She grinned at the words. "Later. And congratulations...for making new friends."

He smiled at her words and gave a small wave as he walked out.